This book integrates history of science and technology with modern social network theory. Using examples from the history of machines, as well as case studies from wireless, radio and chaos theory, the author challenges the genius model of invention. Network analysis concepts are presented to demonstrate the societal nature of invention in areas such as steam power, internal combustion engines, early aviation, air conditioning and more. Using modern measures of network theory, the author demonstrates that the social networks of invention from the 19th and early 20th centuries have similar characteristics to modern 21st C networks such as the World Wide Web. The book provides evidence that exponential growth in technical innovation is linked to the growth of historical innovation networks.
- ISBN13 9789402401219
- Publish Date 23 August 2016 (first published 31 October 2013)
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country NL
- Imprint Springer
- Edition Softcover reprint of the original 1st ed. 2014
- Format Paperback
- Pages 196
- Language English